This initiative is a crucial step in advancing climate resilience and fostering eco-conscious communities across Nigeria, focusing on the pivotal role of subnational governments in driving climate action.

As Nigeria continues to take proactive steps towards addressing climate change, the recent 2024 Climate Governance Performance Ranking report has spotlighted the diverse performance of Nigeria’s 36 states.

Notably, Lagos, Gombe, and Ebonyi have emerged as top performers, demonstrating significant progress in institutional arrangements and project implementation.

While these successes are commendable, they also highlight the ongoing need for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation to further enhance climate action at the state level.

The SOS Webinar Series by Climate Action Africa is designed to serve as a dynamic platform for knowledge sharing, policy influence, and stakeholder engagement.

Through this series, we aim to showcase and discuss the climate change and sustainability initiatives of Nigerian states, explore the challenges they face, and promote innovative solutions that can inform and influence climate policies at the subnational level.

This webinar series will run for a year, with government representatives from 3 different states appearing as speakers every month. Each session will focus on the unique climate challenges and successes of four states, fostering a comprehensive understanding of subnational climate action across Nigeria.

Why This Matters

The Scorecard of States is not just a discussion series; it is a vital mechanism for driving climate action where it is needed most — at the state level. Subnational governments are at the forefront of implementing climate policies that directly impact local communities.

This series, through highlighting state-level initiatives, sharing successes and challenges, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, will contribute to a more resilient and sustainable Nigeria.

Upcoming Event Details

The first series is scheduled to hold as follows:

Date: Thursday, 26 September 2024

Time: 2:00 PM WAT

Duration: 90 minutes

Format: Zoom Webinar

Keynote Address: Cecilia Kinuthia-Njenga – Director, Intergovernmental Support and Collective Progress Division, UNFCCC.

Participating States: Abia, Kano, and Ekiti.

Panelists: Chris Ike – Director, Climate Change Department, Abia State Ministry of Environment; Umar Saleh Anka – Director, Environment and Climate Change at Kano Watershed, Erosion and Climate Change Management Agency KN-WECCMA, Kano State Ministry of Environment and Climate Change; and Akinola Babatunde Peter – Director, Climate Change and Nature Conservation, Ministry of environment and natural resources Ado ekiti Nigeria.

Call for Sponsors and Partners

Sponsorship and partnership opportunities are available to support this impactful initiative. We invite organizations, businesses, and stakeholders committed to climate action to join us in making this series a success.

Partnering with us will enable you to play a key role in advancing climate resilience across Nigeria, gaining visibility among a diverse audience of policymakers, climate action leaders, researchers, and community stakeholders.

For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or partnership discussions, please contact: ezejanu@climateaction.africa .

Join us for this impactful event as we pave the way for enhanced climate action across Nigeria.

This was the focus of the climate change media briefing held in Lagos, Nigeria, on Friday.

With Nigeria facing significant vulnerability to rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, and environmental degradation, Climate Action Africa emphasizes the need for a united front across all stakeholder groups.

Developing countries like Nigeria, and many others across Africa, face unique sets of challenges when it comes to climate change.

“Nigeria’s unique position and vast resources necessitate a comprehensive strategy that leverages the expertise and commitment of every sector,” says Grace Oluchi Mbah, co-founder and executive director at Climate Action Africa. “From government and industry leaders to scientists, community organizations, and individual citizens, we all have a role to play in building a more resilient and sustainable future.”

The importance of fostering collaboration in areas like policy development and implementation, innovation and technology, community mobilization and education, and investment and financing were highlighted during the media briefing.

These are the challenges that the Climate Action Africa Forum 2024 (CAAF24) is set to address.

The upcoming CAAF24 scheduled for June 19-20 in Lagos, serves as a testament to CAA’s commitment to fostering collaboration.

The forum will bring together key stakeholders from across Africa to discuss innovative solutions and develop concrete action plans for tackling climate change.

The forum will introduce the Deal Room, a dynamic marketplace connecting Africa’s brightest innovators with forward-thinking investors to accelerate impactful deals for climate action and sustainable development.

Following the conference, CAA will partner with Silicon Valley based Founder Institute, the world’s largest startup accelerator to provide ongoing support to African innovators in a post accelerator programme.

“CAAF24 provides a valuable platform for knowledge sharing, collaborative problem-solving, and forging strategic partnerships,” says Mbah. “By working together, we can ensure that Nigeria, and Africa as a whole, emerges as a leader in building a sustainable and climate-resilient future.”

Climate Action Africa urges all stakeholders to take a proactive stance in addressing the climate crisis.

Through collaborative efforts, innovation, and a shared commitment to a sustainable future, Nigeria can mitigate the impact of climate change and pave the way for a more prosperous and resilient tomorrow.

Open for registration, the webinar will convene a diverse group of experts and stakeholders on February 29.

The virtual event hosted on LinkedIn from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM WAT (UTC+1) will explore the successes and challenges of climate finance in Africa, paving the way for a more sustainable future. Moderators bringing diverse perspectives include Collins Otieno, Climate Change Policy & Development Practitioner and Lead, Climate Finance and Innovations (VCA), Hivos; Sandra Guzmán Luna, Low Carbon Development & Climate Finance Specialist and Founder, GFLAC; Otito Nwaigwe-Chukwu, ESG Consultant & Climate Finance Specialist, Senior Consultant, EarnMore Consultants and Luke Moore, Climate Finance, Adaptation, and Programme Design Specialist, Associate, Zest Associates.

Africa faces a crucial turning point. Despite abundant renewable energy resources and a vibrant young population, climate ambitions are hampered by a funding gap.

To achieve the 1.5°C global warming target, Africa requires USD 2.8 trillion in climate finance by 2030. Current flows fall short, hindering progress towards development goals.

Grace Oluchi Mbah, Co-Founder and Executive Director of CAA, states: “Africa stands at the crossroads of climate action and development. While rich in renewable energy resources and youthful population, it grapples with climate change and socio-economic challenges.”

The CAAF24 Pre-Event Webinar fosters critical dialogue and collaboration. Attendees will gain valuable insights from data-driven presentations offering a comprehensive overview of the African climate finance landscape, expert panel discussions featuring project leaders, policymakers, and finance specialists sharing real-world case studies and practical recommendations.

Finally, there will be an engaging Q&A session that will provide an opportunity to interact with the esteemed panelists and delve deeper into key issues.

With the next round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) due in 2025, this webinar arrives at a critical moment.

By fostering knowledge sharing, collaboration, and action, it aims to equip stakeholders with the tools and strategies needed to mobilize resources and bridge the climate finance gap, build capacity and expertise across the continent and secure a climate-smart future for Africa and its people.

The partnership was solidified with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding at the NCCC office in Abuja yesterday.

This collaboration aims to unify efforts in addressing Nigeria’s vulnerability to the impacts of climate change. It epitomizes a shared commitment to tackling this challenge, setting a precedent for proactive and impactful measures in the face of global climate challenges.

Representatives from both organizations were present at the signing, including Dr. Salisu Dahiru, director general of NCCC; Grace Oluchi Mbah, co-Founder and Executive Director of CAA; Michael Ivenso, director of Energy, Transportation and Infrastructure at NCCC, and others.

Underscoring the significance of the partnership, Dr. Salisu Dahiru stated: “Our collaboration with Climate Action Africa is a pivotal step towards building a climate-resilient Nigeria. Through joint efforts, we aim to promptly address vulnerabilities and work towards sustainable solutions for our nation.”

According to the 2021 Notre Dame Global Adaptation Index, Nigeria is ranked as the 53rd most vulnerable and 179th most ready country to adapt to climate change.

The country faces significant challenges from extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, erosion, and rising sea levels.

These risks particularly threaten sectors like agriculture, water resources, public health, and settlements.

Grace Oluchi Mbah, co-founder and Executive Director of CAA, emphasized: “Nigeria’s vulnerability to climate change necessitates immediate and collective action. Through this partnership, we aspire to harness the power of innovation, sustainable practices, policy dialogue, and community engagement to reshape Nigeria’s future and set a global example.”

This collaboration precedes the highly anticipated Climate Action Africa Forum (CAAF24), scheduled to take place in Lagos, Nigeria, from June 17th to 19th, 2024. CAAF24 is a global event that will bring together stakeholders from across the world to encourage collaboration, catalyze actionable solutions, and urge governments, businesses, and individuals to invest in climate-smart initiatives.

This historic gathering, running from September 4th to 6th, has brought together over 20,000 participants — global leaders, policymakers, and influential stakeholders — to tackle the pressing issue of climate change.

Under the theme “Driving Green Growth & Climate Finance Solutions for Africa and the World,” the Africa Climate Summit is spearheaded by President Ruto, reflecting the urgency to address the escalating global climate crisis, particularly in Africa.

This Summit serves as a platform to inform, shape, and influence commitments, leading to the development of the Nairobi Declaration, and stands as one of the largest gatherings ever convened to address the pressing challenges of climate change — surpassing the scale of most COP (Conference of the Parties) events.

This immense turnout reflects the unwavering commitment of the African people to tackle climate challenges head-on and drive sustainable solutions for the continent.

On the second day of the Summit, the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Femi Adesina, made a groundbreaking announcement that the finance institution had committed to providing $25 billion to climate finance by 2050 as part of its efforts to accelerate climate adaptation. This significant pledge by AfDB further underscores the importance of this summit in mobilizing resources and commitment towards climate action in Africa.

“What makes this Summit truly remarkable is not just its size, but also its profound emphasis on African-led solutions. Here, on this continent, solutions are being co-designed, and tailor-made to address Africa’s unique needs and realities. It’s inspiring to witness the collaborative efforts of leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders as they come together to forge strategies that cater specifically to Africa.

Through this event, Africa demonstrates its determination to build resilience and adaptability. Africans are taking their future into their hands, actively participating in shaping the destiny of the continent,” said Grace Oluchi, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Climate Action Africa.

Climate Action Africa’s presence at the Africa Climate Summit holds profound significance due to its unwavering Pan-African commitment. As leaders in the Pan-African movement for climate action, the organization operates across the continent, recognizing that climate challenges defy borders.

Climate Action Africa’s participation in this Pan-African Summit underscores its dedication to nurturing partnerships and collaborations that extend across the entire African continent, uniting us in our shared climate mission.

The organization firmly believes that meaningful change can only be achieved through collective effort.

Its active engagement in this event shows its dedication to expediting climate action by facilitating the exchange of knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions with like-minded organizations, policymakers, and practitioners, propelling us toward a sustainable and resilient continent.

Guided by strategic leadership, Grace Oluchi represents the organization at the Africa Climate Summit, where she stands at the forefront of high-powered strategic meetings and discussions aimed not only at shaping the future of climate action within Africa but also on a global scale.

Her presence underscores the organisation’s commitment to forging a path toward a sustainable world, one where climate action knows no boundaries and where collective efforts steer us toward a brighter tomorrow.

“I am honored to be present at the Africa Climate Summit 2023. Climate Action Africa stands as a testament to the power of collective action in addressing climate change. Our mission is deeply rooted in building a sustainable and resilient Africa, and this Summit provides an invaluable platform to further our cause.

In a world where climate change knows no boundaries, it is essential that we collaborate, share insights, and forge partnerships that span the entire African continent. This is when we can truly drive climate solutions, break down barriers, and seize the opportunities that lie in our shared pursuit of sustainability and resilience.

I am excited about the strategic meetings and discussions taking place during this Summit. They offer a unique opportunity to shape the direction of climate action and finance solutions. As we embark on this journey, let us remember that our collective actions today will determine the world we leave for future generations.”

As Climate Action Africa continues to partake in and monitor the proceedings at the Africa Climate Summit 2023, it places its trust in the strength of the covenants and promises made here by governments and partners. Climate Action Africa is fully committed to this historic event, offering its support and holding national, regional, and sub-national governments accountable for their commitments.

The inaugural project, themed “Integrating Religion and AI for Climate Action,” kicked off on August 26, 2023, at the church premises and is set to unfold over the next twelve (12) weeks.

The project’s primary objective is to introduce children aged 7 to 12 to the dynamic realm of artificial intelligence (AI) and its profound capacity to communicate compelling narratives that ignite a passion for environmental responsibility.

This unique curriculum melds faith-based teachings with innovative technological advancements, offering a comprehensive and comprehensive approach to climate action education.

Week One (1) Highlights

The inaugural event, hosted at Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Catholic Church in Lagos, was marked by an engaging and enlightening day for the participating children.

The children, numbering +90, were warmly received by the church and Climate Action Africa team. The day’s activities encompassed a wide range of educational and creative components.

The children were exposed to the concept of climate change in an accessible and relatable manner. The session’s scholarly approach fostered an understanding of climate change’s causes, effects, and relevance to their lives and communities.

This educational foundation served as a steppingstone for the creative activities that followed.

With an introduction to AI, the children embarked on a journey of discovery into the world of artificial intelligence.

They learned about AI’s capabilities, its ethical implications, and its potential as a tool to inspire change. Equipped with AI resources provided by Climate Action Africa, the young participants dabbled in generating prompts and characters, thereby gaining hands-on experience in harnessing AI’s potential.

The pinnacle of the day was the children’s collaboration to create short animations highlighting the impact of climate change on communities. This artistic endeavour merged their newfound knowledge of climate change with their creative abilities, highlighting the potential of AI to facilitate meaningful storytelling.

The session culminated with joyful photographs featuring the children and the Climate Action Africa team alongside the esteemed Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Simeon Irabor, symbolizing the union of faith and innovation in the pursuit of climate action. 

Anticipated Weeks Ahead

As the project unfolds over the next 11 weeks, the children will continue to engage with AI tools to cultivate a deeper understanding of climate action.

The integration of faith-based teachings on stewardship will infuse their journey with spiritual purpose, driving them to become ambassadors for a more sustainable future. Activities will include collaborative projects, discussions, eco-friendly initiatives, and the creation of faith-inspired animations.

Climate Action Africa and Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Catholic Church are committed to nurturing a generation of environmentally conscious and technologically adept young individuals, united in their pursuit of safeguarding the planet.

At a time when the world faces unprecedented environmental challenges, harnessing the power of art and creativity becomes a vital tool for driving awareness and change. Creatives for Climate Action seeks to amplify the voices of African creatives who are committed to addressing the urgent climate crisis through their artistic expressions.

To kick off the Creatives for Climate Action initiative, the organisation is launching a sustainable art contest to spur creativity for climate action. Artists from across Africa are invited to be part of this transformative movement by submitting their sustainable art projects. 

Benefits

The winner of the sustainable art contest will receive:

• Cash prize of 200,000 Nigerian Naira.
• 80% of the proceeds generated from the auction of their artwork.
• Extensive promotion of their works on all of Climate Action Africa’s digital platforms and physical spaces for a period of one year.

Eligibility 

• Submitted works must embody the concept of sustainable art, reflecting a deep understanding of environmental concerns and offering innovative solutions through artistic expression.
• Artists must be African residents living within the continent of Africa.
• Participating artists must agree to the terms set forth by Climate Action Africa, including granting the organization the rights to the exhibition and sale of the winning artwork. A 20% commission from sales will be allocated to support further climate action initiatives.

How to Apply  

Interested artists are requested to submit their high-resolution artwork photographs in either JPEG or PNG format, along with a brief description of the piece before the deadline on Friday, September 15, 2023.

By contributing their artistic talents to this initiative, artists have an unprecedented opportunity to make a lasting impact on the global fight against climate change. Creatives for Climate Action aims to not only highlight the urgency of the climate crisis but also inspire meaningful change through the power of creativity.

The initiative aims to integrate religious teachings with environmental stewardship to foster awareness, responsibility, and action against the threats of climate change in Nigeria.

Climate change poses a significant threat to ecosystems, economies, and human well-being, with Nigeria being particularly vulnerable to its impacts. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and sea-level rise have already caused adverse effects on the country’s agriculture, water resources, and public health.

Recognizing the urgency of addressing climate change and the influence of religious institutions in people’s lives, the F4CA project seeks to harness the power of spiritual values and teachings to encourage participation in climate action.

The program will facilitate collaboration between religious institutions and environmental organizations, allowing religious leaders and environmental experts to work together.

By combining scientific knowledge with faith-based teachings, the F4CA initiative will provide comprehensive climate change education to members of religious spaces, empowering them to become stewards of the earth and take meaningful action to protect the environment.

“As an organization committed to addressing climate change challenges in Africa, we recognize the immense influence of religious communities and the power of faith and spirituality in driving social change. We believe that by integrating religious values with environmental awareness, we can inspire positive action towards eco-consciousness and improving the resilience of our communities,” said Grace Oluchi, Co-Founder of Climate Action Africa.

The Faith for Climate Action program aligns with the goals of fostering environmental stewardship and promoting sustainable practices within the framework of religious values.

By leveraging the power of religious institutions, Climate Action Africa aims to engage all segments of society, including religious communities, in taking proactive steps to mitigate the effects of climate change in Nigeria.

As part of the initiative, Climate Action Africa will conduct awareness campaigns, workshops, and training sessions in religious spaces to foster environmental consciousness.

Climate Action Africa invites religious leaders, environmental experts, and individuals interested in climate action to join hands and collaborate with us in this noble endeavor.